CM announces memorial to Baisaran attack victims

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced the establishment of a memorial for the 26 victims of last month’s tragic terror attack at Baisaran near Pahalgam in South Kashmir. “We have been discussing this from day one — a memorial will be set up in Baisaran for the 26 innocent lives lost, as a lasting tribute and a reminder that they will never be forgotten,” he stated.

During a gathering of travel and tour operators from across the country, the Chief Minister said: “The Public Works Department was authorized to grant in-principal approval for this memorial.”

He mentioned that suggestions would be sought to ensure the memorial is both magnificent and dignified. Expressing gratitude to the visiting tour operators, he said, “I thank each one of you for coming to Pahalgam and supporting the revival of tourism. Many of you reignited tourism in the Valley during the most challenging times — when even locals feared venturing out.”

Omar recalled the early 1990s when tourism resumed in the Valley with groups from Mumbai and Gujarat, which helped bring it to its peak until the tragic events of April 22. “No matter how strongly we condemn what happened that day, it will never be enough. We lack words to comfort the families of those 26 victims. We can only bow our heads in their memory.”

While acknowledging security challenges, Abdullah stressed the need for strict measures. “Although we do not fully control the security apparatus, I believe what happened should never have happened. We must do everything possible to ensure it never happens again.”

Regarding the reopening of tourist destinations post-Baisaran incident, he stated that the process would begin in a phased manner in the coming days. “I visited Betaab Valley myself to assess the situation and build confidence. Not all destinations will reopen at once, but some will gradually become accessible.”

On Tuesday, Omar also visited Nunwan base camp to review preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, interacting with officials on the ground and emphasizing the importance of coordination for ensuring pilgrims’ safety and comfort. His visit to Betaab Valley was followed by an impromptu cycling tour from a local hotel to Nunwan Base Camp and back, promoting new initiatives taken by the Tourism Department. — OC

J & K